Ammolite is the gemstone derived from the fossilized shell of the ammonite species Placeenticeros Meeki, it is known as Alberta’s Gemstone.

Origin-: Ammolite was first discovered by Blackfoot Indians in an area of bordering in the Canadian Rocky mountains.

Synonyms-: Aapoak, calcentine, gem ammonite, korite.

 Ammolite is available as-:

Natural stones-: A layer of ammolite gem naturally bonded to a matrix or more rarely a solid two sided pieces of gem. These are usually free from shapes and are sold by carat weight.

Doublets-: A polished layer of ammolite bonded to a hard shale back. Also usually free from shapes, but sold by weight or size.

Triplet-:  A layer of gem sandwiched between a protective packaging and hard spinel top. These stones are  strongly recommended for application that involve day to day wear, particularly ring settings. Calibrated and sold by size.

 Color-: Gray to brown with iridescence of full spectrum of colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, Indigo and violet.

Hardness-: 4.5 to 5.5 on the Mohs scale.

 Luster-: Greasy to dull.

Occurrence-: Bear Paw sea formation that extends from Alberta to Saskatchewan in Canada and to south to Montana in the USA.

Metaphysical Properties-:

• It is one of only three organic gemstones (Ammolite , Pearl and Amber). Ammolite   is unique because it is a fossil as well as a gemstone, and thus protected under the Canadian Fossil Act.
• Stone of luck by blackfoot Indians and is called inskim or buffalo stone.
• It is believed to possess healing power and is often added to medicine bundles.
• Feng shui followers believe it has the power to detoxify the body and improve overall well-being by improving the body’s flow of energy.

Care and maintenance-:

• Clean with mild soap and water or a commercial purpose cleaner.
• Ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided.
• The lightly acid solution used in them can attack the surface of a natural stone and stress the layers in a triplet.
• Steam cleaning should be avoided.
• With proper care the stone will last indefinitely.

Routine enhancement-:

 Ammolite is often impregnated with colourless, hardened substances which help to lend strength to the naturally fragile gemstones.